What is a Fi.Fa. (tax lien)?

A property tax Fi.Fa. is a lien placed against a piece of property for failure to pay taxes when due. Literally, "fieri facias," means "cause it to be done." This is a judicial writ directing the sheriff to satisfy a judgment (such as unpaid delinquent taxes on real or personal property) from the debtor's property. Because a Fi.Fa. indicates a late payment or non-payment of a bill, it may affect the credit standing of the property owner(s). It may also result in the owner(s) loss of the property through tax sale. Therefore, prompt payment of property tax bills, like any other bill, should be taken seriously.

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1. What is property taxation?
2. What is the difference between Real Property and Personal Property?
3. What do my property tax dollars pay for?
4. How are my property taxes calculated?
5. When are property taxes due?
6. Does the City accept or acknowledge postmarks as meeting the deadline for timely payment of property taxes?
7. Is there a penalty charge for late payment?
8. Can interest and penalty be waived if I did not receive a bill?
9. Does the City accept partial payments or set-up payment arrangements for property taxes?
10. How can I pay my property taxes to the City?
11. My mortgage company pays my tax bill; can you mail my bill to the mortgage company?
12. Who determines the value of my property?
13. How can I contact the Board of Assessors?
14. What is a millage rate?
15. What is the current City of Savannah millage rate?
16. Who sets the City of Savannah millage rate?
17. Are there any ways to lower my property tax bill because it is an owner-occupied home, or for meeting certain age, income, or disability criteria?
18. I disagree with my property’s appraised value. Are there any avenues for appeal?
19. Am I responsible for paying property taxes while my property value is under appeal?
20. What is a Fi.Fa. (tax lien)?
21. When are the tax sales?
22. What do I do if my property is sold at tax sale?